#potatoproduction #innovativetechniques #sustainableagriculture #tissueculture #APCseedproduction #potatofarming #cropimprovement #agritechnology #agriculturaldevelopment #agriculturalinnovation
Tripura, a state in India, has recently witnessed a significant stride in potato production thanks to the efforts of Ranganatha G J Shridhar Rao Jagana International Potato Center (CIP) CGIAR. This article delves into the exciting developments taking place in Tripura’s potato cultivation, particularly focusing on the use of tissue culture and apical-rooted cuttings (ARC) techniques. These advancements are set to revolutionize potato farming in the region and have the potential to significantly boost agricultural productivity.
Revolutionizing Potato Cultivation with Tissue Culture Technology:
One of the key aspects of the CIP team’s work in Tripura is the implementation of tissue culture technology in the multiplication of potato plantlets. By training the Department of Horticulture (DoH) lab staff in this advanced technique, the CIP team has successfully produced 27,000 plantlets within just one month. The tissue culture laboratory in Agartala, Tripura, has become a hub of innovation and knowledge transfer, enabling the local workforce to adopt cutting-edge practices.
Apical-Rooted Cuttings (ARC) Technique for Enhanced Production:
Building on the success of tissue culture, the DoH in Tripura is taking the next step by establishing a temperature-controlled polyhouse. This facility will facilitate the production of apical-rooted cuttings (ARC) starting from August. With a target of producing 500,000 ARCs, the DoH aims to plant them in farmers’ fields for G0 production. This technique holds great promise as it allows for the rapid multiplication of high-quality planting material, ensuring a consistent supply of healthy and disease-free seed potatoes.
Tripura: Leading the Way in True Potato Seed (TPS) Production:
Tripura stands out as the only state in India still producing True Potato Seed (TPS), which was introduced by CIP over 30 years ago. The success of tissue culture and the upcoming implementation of ARC seed production has sparked further interest in Tripura to focus on ARC seed production. This focus on advanced seed production methods can play a pivotal role in sustaining and enhancing potato farming in the region.
The ongoing initiatives led by Ranganatha G J Shridhar Rao Jagana International Potato Center (CIP) CGIAR in Tripura have the potential to revolutionize potato cultivation in the state. The adoption of tissue culture and the upcoming implementation of ARC seed production are expected to significantly boost potato production and improve the livelihoods of farmers. These advancements not only ensure a consistent supply of healthy planting material but also contribute to disease control and higher crop yields. As Tripura continues to lead the way in potato farming, it serves as an inspiration for other regions to explore innovative techniques and contribute to sustainable agriculture.
